Simple Steamed Bok Choy with Sesame
A quick and healthy side dish featuring tender-crisp baby bok choy gently steamed and finished with aromatic toasted sesame oil and crunchy sesame seeds.
For 2 servings
**Prepare Bok Choy:** Thoroughly wash the baby bok choy heads under cold running water, paying attention to the base where dirt can accumulate. Trim off the very end of the root, then slice each head in half lengthwise. If using larger baby bok choy, you can quarter them.
**Set Up Steamer:** Fill a pot with about 2 cups (470 ml) of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Ensure the water level is below the steamer basket to prevent the bok choy from sitting in water.
**Arrange Bok Choy:** Place the prepared bok choy halves in a steamer basket, arranging them in a single layer if possible to ensure even cooking. Do not overcrowd the basket.
**Steam:** Carefully place the steamer basket over the boiling water. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and steam for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the stems are tender-crisp and the leaves are vibrant green and slightly wilted. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture and nutrients.
**Serve:** Carefully remove the steamer basket from the pot. Using tongs, arrange the steamed bok choy on a serving platter or individual plates.
**Finish:** Drizzle evenly with the toasted sesame oil, sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds, and add a pinch of sea salt if desired. Serve immediately as a healthy and flavorful side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Don't Overcook:** Bok choy cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it remains tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked bok choy loses its vibrant color and pleasant texture.
- 2**Even Steaming:** For best results, arrange the bok choy in a single layer in the steamer basket. If you have too much, steam in batches.
- 3**Flavor Boosters:** For added depth, you can finely mince a clove of garlic and a small piece of ginger, then sauté them briefly in a teaspoon of sesame oil before drizzling over the steamed bok choy.
- 4**Serving Suggestion:** This simple bok choy pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or a bowl of steamed rice and your favorite stir-fry.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil along with the sesame oil for a touch of heat.
Umami RichUmami Rich
Whisk together 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (or tamari), 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, then drizzle over the bok choy instead of just salt.
Garlic Ginger InfusionGarlic Ginger Infusion
Before steaming, toss the bok choy with 1 minced garlic clove and 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger for an aromatic boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Bok choy is an excellent source of vitamins K, A, and C, crucial for bone health, vision, and immune function, respectively.
Low Calorie and Hydrating
As a cruciferous vegetable, bok choy is very low in calories and high in water content, making it a hydrating and diet-friendly option.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
It contains various antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. If using regular bok choy, you'll need to cut it into smaller, manageable pieces (quarters or eighths) and it might require an extra minute or two of steaming time.
